Diabetes

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, or when the body is unable to effectively use the insulin it produces.

• Insulin is the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Glucose comes from two main sources: food and the liver.
• The pancreas secretes insulin, which helps move sugar from the bloodstream into the cells.

Diabetes is characterized by:

• Producing a small amount of insulin.
• Not producing insulin at all.

Diagnosis

• A1C Test (Glycated Hemoglobin):
  • This blood test indicates the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months.
• Random Blood Sugar Test:
  • A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• Fasting Blood Sugar Test:
  • Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL.
  • Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL.
  • Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by either producing a small amount of insulin or not producing any insulin at all, requiring daily insulin injections.

Causes of Type 1 Diabetes:

• Genetic factors.
• Exposure to viruses and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes:

• Frequent urination or bedwetting in children.
• Increased thirst and dry mouth.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• Extreme hunger.

Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes:

• Taking insulin.
• Counting carbohydrates.
• Continuous blood sugar monitoring.
• Eating healthy foods.
• Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by the body's inability to regulate and use sugar (glucose) for energy.

• This chronic condition leads to the accumulation of large amounts of sugar in the bloodstream, resulting in high blood sugar levels.
• It is more common among individuals over 40 years old.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes:

• Increased thirst.
• Increased hunger.
• Blurred vision.
• Dark patches on the skin (neck/armpits).
• Slow-healing wounds.
• Numbness or tingling sensation.

Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes:

• Weight loss.
• Following a healthy diet.
• Monitoring blood sugar levels.
• Regular physical activity.
• Taking diabetes medications.

Habits to Protect Against Diabetes

• Reduce sugar consumption.
• Lose excess weight.
• Engage in physical activity.
• Follow a healthy diet.
• Manage blood pressure levels.
• Avoid tobacco products.